Maduka Okoye reflects on a ’great’ season with Udinese

Nigeria goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye has reflected on his past season with Udinese in the Italian top division, saying he accomplished something he is proud about. 

Okoye, 24, joined Udinese from Watford last August with no assurances of playing time but he quickly rose to become first choice goalkeeper, going on to heroically help the club maintain their place in the Serie A for next season.

Speaking exclusively with Omasports, Okoye said: “First of all, I can say I accomplished something that I can be proud of and that I dreamed of all my life. You know, we’ve been working, me and my family, especially my father, for moments like this. But this is still just the first step in something even bigger that we are striving for.”

His rise to prominence came quicker than expected, thanks to support from Udinese’s management and coaching staff. 

“After a turbulent year in London and Watford, I was happy to get a new chance, and I’m grateful to the Pozzo family for giving me this opportunity in Udine,” the Nigerian acknowledged. 

“I came from zero, as nothing was promised to me, and it wasn’t the plan to jump in this early. However, I gave my all and believed in myself, especially with my father’s belief in me. When I signed with Udinese, he said, “don’t worry, you’ll be playing in six months,” and surprisingly, he was right. I don’t know how he knew. Six months later, I was playing.

“Even though I didn’t play in Watford, Gino Pozzo believed in me. He invested a significant amount of money when I transferred from Roma to Watford. There was a plan behind that decision. Additionally, I was fortunate to have an excellent goalkeeping coach, Sergio, who supported me from the very beginning. He provided me with the time, training, and trust that I needed, and ultimately, it worked out well for me.”

Regarding Serie A, Okoye rates it highly, comparing it favorably to the Premier League in terms of intensity and fan passion. “In my opinion, after the Premier League, Serie A is a top league, though I haven’t experienced the Bundesliga, Ligue 1, or La Liga.

“I had to be honest with myself and adapt to the different level of competition. The passion of the fans is on another level; this country is crazy for football, and I feel it every day. It’s a beautiful thing to see how people live and die for football, and it motivates me to work even harder.”

Reflecting on his recent accolades, including being hailed as Udinese’s savior after critical saves helped them maintain their Serie A place for next season, Okoye expressed gratitude:  “That made me very happy because I felt like giving the fans something back. 

“From my first Coppa Italia game, they supported me, and I received a lot of messages. Even during tough times and learning points, when I made mistakes, the fans stood by me. While we celebrate the good things and great saves, I also acknowledge my mistakes. I’m glad I could repay them with a great performance on the last day and help Udinese stay in Serie A, which has been their home for 30 years. This means a lot to the Pozzo family, the city, and me. I’m grateful and very happy.”

And as rumors swirl about interest from Inter Milan, Okoye remains focused on his current club. “I’m very happy to be a Udinese player and am grateful for the opportunity,” he acknowledged. “I’ve seen the news mentioning me in relation to Inter, and it’s good for my profile. A big team considering signing me is an accomplishment in itself. Regardless of what happens, I’m happy. I’m also excited to return and start the new season with Udinese.”